PLEASE NOTE: This event has taken place.
Cannabis has always been a topic rich with myths, misconceptions, and deeply held beliefs that wouldn’t survive a six-second google search.
But how much of what we think we know about it is actually true?
That’s exactly what we’ll be finding out at our next exclusive Nudge Talk, taking place at the rather elegant Old Queen’s Head on April 16th, as we welcome leading cannabis researcher Dr Martine Skumlien for an evening of mythbusting, cold hard facts, and a complimentary drink in hand (so you will have at least some stimulants).
The whole thing will be a deep dive into the science, history, and policy of cannabis, as well as an investigation into some of the most persistent claims about its effects. Can you really not get addicted to it? Does it make you lazy? Is it now more dangerous than ever? And what about that long-circulating claim that it’s actually a miracle cure for just about anything? Dr Skumlien will be laying out the latest evidence on all of it – confirming or debunking each claim with rigorous research (and, presumably, just a little frustration at how stubborn some of these myths are).
What makes her an expert? It is thanks to time spent in uni dorm room, but, you know, actually studying. She’s one of the UK’s foremost experts in this field, having received her doctorate from the University of Cambridge, where she investigated the association between acute and chronic cannabis exposure and reward processing in adults and adolescents, and she’s gone on to work at the Addictions Department and the Policy Research Unit in King’s College London. Basically, if anyone can cut through the smoke, it’s her.
CRYSTALWEED cannabis / Unsplash
The format of the evening is simple: a 40-minute talk where Dr Skumlien lays out the realities of cannabis – both its benefits and risks – followed by up to 40 minutes of Q&A, where you’ll be able to grill her on everything from CBD to the future of weed legislation. And because we like to keep things civilised, your ticket includes a pint of beer, a glass of house wine, or a spirit and mixer.
For Members, tickets are just £15 per person (other Nudge readers can come for £20 per person), and as ever, spots are limited – so if you want to separate the highs from the lies, book tickets fast…
NOTE: Dr Martine Skumlien’s talk on cannabis myths & facts will take place on April 16th at the Old Queen’s Head. For Members, tickets cost £15 and include entry and a welcome drink of choice. To get tickets, just head to the “The Nudge Talks’ box at the top of this page. Other Nudge readers are welcome to come too for £20pp and tickets can be purchased here.
Not yet a Nudge Member? Sign up for a free trial.
The Old Queen’s Head | 44 Essex Road, N1 8LN
While you’re in the neighbourhood… here’s our run-down of the best bars in Islington
